DBI to reopen second‑floor review stations, expand over‑the‑counter services and add online kitchen/bath permits

Department of Building Inspection staff reported improvements in permit throughput and outlined steps to accelerate customer service and permit processing.

Christine (DBI) said March saw 5,845 permits issued, an increase over prior months and a return to or above some pre‑pandemic levels. To reduce delays for over‑the‑counter projects, DBI will re‑open second‑floor plan‑review stations so customers can meet plan reviewers in person as before the pandemic. The department will begin a soft launch of expanded services and plans a full launch on May 10 so customers may walk out with permits the same or next day if no changes are required.

DBI also plans to add online, no‑plan kitchen and bathroom permit models to its online permitting portfolio in late May or early June, will offer electronic plan‑review training for customers, is redesigning the website to consolidate information, and is recruiting additional plan‑check staff. Public commenters and trade representatives praised the progress and urged continued efforts to clear backlog and speed commercial throughput.

What to expect: Over‑the‑counter plan‑review stations on the Second Floor will be reactivated beginning in May; DBI will hold webinars and post materials for customers on the new services and online no‑plan permit models.